Whether you’re a frequent flier or jet away occasionally, traveling with a full-size suitcase has lost its appeal. More people choose to ignore baggage claim chaos, lost luggage and checked baggage fees — by taking just a carry-on. It’s easy to pack, hoist and maneuver, but how do you fit all your stuff in a smaller bag? As a beauty and fashion editor, I learned to pack light for location photo shoots from models who never checked luggage. My foolproof strategy has been updated and is easier than ever. Here’s how to wing it with maximum style and minimum stuff for 14 days.
1. Buy an updated carry-on in a standard airline size.
Upgrading your suitcase is the key to making the just-a-carry-on idea work. New designs are lighter in weight but sturdier and easier to lift and drag, even when fully packed. Size matters and varies airline to airline (so check your airline for exact specs when booking), but know that22 by 14 by 9 inches fits in most overhead bins and holds plenty. The new carry-ons feature telescopic handles that adjust to your height, and most have expansion capabilities, so purchases made on your trip are not a problem. (Check tip number 6 for more on that!) Look for a “spinner”with four wheels for quick turns, a secure stand-alone, stress-free maneuvering down narrow plane aisles, and dashes to the gate. Examples include the TravelPro Platinum Elite Carry-on Spinner ($314, travelpro.com) and the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner ($150, samsonite.com).Carry-ons with technological updates, such as the Weego Smart Carry-on Luggage in Silver($130,walmart.com), have an external USB port to charge your devices (great during delays, but be sure the batteries are removable) and/or TSA-approved locks for increased convenience and security. “Smart” bags have a pocket for your battery with a cord in it that threads through the suitcase and connects to the charging port. Make sure your battery and the cord are compatible since some are USB or USB-C. If the plane is full or the aircraft is small, your carry-on might still get checked at the gate — so always add a luggage tag inside and out for an instant ID.
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2.Use your body and travel outfit as extra luggage.
Wearing a pulled-together, neutral-toned outfit of your bulkiest items (including shoes and coat/jacket) saves suitcase space and offers climate control for freezing airports, planes, hotel lobbies and inclement days. Staying stylish en route can also help you snare upgrades and better service both on board and on arrival. I often see 50-plus women wearing super casual outfits or leggings to fly. That’s a mistake. Airlines may hassle over carry-on weight but never on how much you’re wearing to board the plane. It’s easy to look polished but stay comfy with a layered combo that lets you add or subtract warmth. One no-fail outfit that works regardless of destination is the long-sleeve Gap Modern Crew T-Shirt in Navy Blue & White Stripe (gap.com); trim pull-on Athleta Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pants in Black or Navy ($99, athleta.gap.com); a relaxed Loft Girlfriend Cardigan in Deep Space Blue ($38, loft.com); a lightweight Old Navy Women Oversized Double-Breasted Trench Coat in Shore Enough ($70, oldnavy.gap.com); a large, soft HappyLuxe Wayfarer Travel Scarf UPF 50 + in Classic Jersey-Navy Blue ($46, amazon.com), which works in flight as a rolled pillow or blanket and protects you from seatmates with coughs or colds; and rubber sole loafers or the Sperry Crest Twin Gore Slip-on Sneakers in White 1 ($70, zappos.com). Yes, bring the trench coat. On rainy days and chilly evenings, it’s the one piece everyone regrets not having.
